Sivas Ziya Bey Manuscript Works Library
Sivas is home to an important repository of knowledge: the Ziya Bey Yazma Eserler Kütüphanesi. This library is not merely a building filled with books; it is a cultural center that preserves exceptionally rare handwritten manuscripts passed down from the past to the present.
Where Is It Located and How Was It Established?
This library is located in the heart of Sivas, a beautiful city in Türkiye’s Central Anatolia Region.
The founder of the library is Yusuf Ziya Başara, a man who deeply loved reading and learning.
Yusuf Ziya Bey established this library through his own efforts in 1908, more than a century ago, at the age of 38. He created it as a private library to safeguard his personal collection of books and valuable manuscripts.
Sivas Ziya Bey Yazma Eserler Kütüphanesi (Kültür Portal)
A Journey Through Time: The History of the Library
In its early years, the library was also known as the “Ziya Bitik Evi.” The word “Bitik” means “book” in Old Turkish.
Until his death, Yusuf Ziya Bey personally covered all expenses of the library and worked tirelessly to expand its collection.
The library served as private property until 1978, after which it came under state protection. Today, it continues its mission as one of Türkiye’s most significant manuscript libraries.
Sivas Ziya Bey Yazma Eserler Kütüphanesi (Kültür Portal)
What Types of Works Are Held Within?
As its name suggests, this library houses handwritten manuscripts. A manuscript refers to very old books and documents written by hand before the widespread use of printing presses.
The library contains more than 1,600 handwritten manuscripts and over 18,000 printed books, both old and new.
These works cover a wide range of subjects including religion, history, philosophy, mathematics, and literature. Written in languages such as Arabic, Persian, and Ottoman Turkish, they carry the knowledge and culture of their time to the present day.
Sivas Ziya Bey Yazma Eserler Kütüphanesi (Kültür Portal)
Why Is the Library Important?
The Ziya Bey Yazma Eserler Kütüphanesi is a vital center of knowledge for Sivas and its surrounding region.
It assumes the responsibility of preserving information and cultural heritage from earlier eras. Scholars and students rely on its collections to research historical knowledge.
In a section of the library, the Dumlupınar Children’s Library was later established. This ensures that both ancient and valuable manuscripts are preserved while also giving children access to modern books.
